Three experts presented information on chronic wasting disease (CWD) in white-tailed deer before the Oklahoma Wildlife Conservation Commission during their regular meeting April 6 in Oklahoma City.
Dr. Mark Ruder, director of the Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Dr. Jennifer Malmberg, supervisory research biologist at the National Wildlife Disease Center and wildlife biologist Grant Woods each presented research about the occurrence and management of CWD.
Also, during the meeting, the Commission recognized Game Warden David deMontigny, based in McIntosh County, as the 2026 ODWC R3 Champion. R3, which stands for recruitment, retention and reactivation, is an effort to increase participation in shooting sports, hunting, trapping and angling.
He was recognized for efforts that include organizing outdoor experiences for disabled veterans and first responders, hosting classes about processing game meat and other efforts.
Cole Niblett, Oklahoma water team leader for Garver Engineering, presented the Commission with updates about ongoing public shooting range projects. He said engineering is underway at Pushmataha and Cherokee Wildlife Management Areas, while environmental assessments are in progress on the projects at Fort Gibson, Texoma-Washita Arm and several other WMAs.
The Commission voted to accept donations from Mender Co., Oklahoma Hunters and Anglers and the North Fork Chapter of Pheasants/Quail Forever. The donations will be used to improve fish habitat in reservoirs, purchase equipment and more.
Finally, the Commission authorized ODWC Director Wade Free to file suit in District Court to protect ODWC’s ability to enforce state wildlife laws.
The Oklahoma Wildlife Conservation Commission is the eight-member governing board of the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. The Commission establishes state hunting and fishing regulations, sets policy for the Wildlife Department, and indirectly oversees all state fish and wildlife conservation activities. Commission members are appointed by the governor and confirmed by the Oklahoma Senate.
The next regular Wildlife Commission meeting is set for May 4 at the John D. Groendyke Wildlife Conservation Building, 1801 N. Lincoln Blvd. in Oklahoma City.